A better version of Laura Ravasi.

[Sharon Knettell]

Judson,

Nothing is more discouraging than not having the skills at your fingertips to paint your visions.

Skill takes time and practice. You have to build a foundation before you build that fancy house.

Portrait painting IS NOT finding a suitable (or in many cases as I have seen, unsuitable) photograph and copying it.

You will find that all the MAJOR portrait painters in this country have spent a great deal of time first working tonally in black and white, then doing studies from LIVE models.

If you just want to have fun and impress your friends and relatives with copies of their photos, what you are doing is fine. If you are seeking a more discerning and better paying clientele and are serious about being a fine artist, then you have to put in the hard work. There are no shortcuts.

A great deal of the difficulty I see with many of the posts here is that too many people rush into the very difficult job of painting with color without the proper background. Give yourself the gift of really preparing yourself, you will never regret the time.

There are places to post your drawings on this site. I am sure you will get some useful feedback.

[Judson Eneas]

My drawing style is ridiculously good. That's not problem for me. I ought to show you my drawings one of these days. It's just that I need more practive with painting the human figure. Oh and by the way; what did you think of my still-life?

[Michele Rushworth]

Can you post a link to your still life?

[Scott Bartner]

Dear Judson:

I've seen your work and sense a strong drive to move forward. The advice given on this forum is excellent but there is no substitute for a good instructor.

I assume you live in the Washington area? When I was your age (and just as passionate) I was advised to study with Danni Dawson, a fine artist and outstanding teacher. She comes across at times as a bit of a drill sergeant--but in a good way. I just checked and she still teaches at the Torpedo Factory in Alexandria:

http://www.theartleague.org/

Robert Liberace teaches there as well.

Best of luck and never get discouraged.